Have we seen the real Rudd yet?

Kevin Rudd has accused Tony Abbott of lying about the state of the economy, carbon pricing and boats.

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd didn't answer a single question down the barrel of the camera last night Source: Getty Images

Mr Rudd pictured getting ready for his interview. Picture: ABC/Facebook Source: Supplied

RECYCLED Rudd. Born-again Kevin. KRudd13.

Whatever we call him, Kevin Rudd is back as Prime Minister. And that means only one thing for certain: Gruelling showdowns with the ABC's 7.30 host Leigh Sales.

So what did we learn from Mr Rudd's first major interview as PM the second time around? We identified five key takeaways from last night's repartee:

1. No blue tie: Mr Rudd has not-so-subtly worn a catalog of blue neckties ever since Julia Gillard's now-infamous "men-in-blue-ties" rant. But Mr Rudd, likely upon the insistence of his publicity crew, avoided opening himself up to blue-tie criticism by opting for a purple and blue polka-dot number. Smart.

2. K-evasive: Mr Rudd didn't answer a single question down the barrel of the camera. He refused to explain away his change in position on the matter of the leadership; he refused to quote a definitive election date; he refused to commit himself on policy. But he did commit on challenging Tony Abbott to a winner-takes-all-style debate, moderated by the Press Gallery. After last week's Labor leadership showdown, he must be confident.

Mr Rudd pictured getting ready for his interview. Picture: ABC/Facebook Source: Supplied

3. What happened to gay marriage? Everyone is wondering what Labor's official position will be on same-sex equality both pre- and post-election. Given both Mr Rudd's controversial decision to publicly back gay marriage weeks ago, and Penny Wong's defection from the Gillard camp, it's astounding to consider this escaped mention completely. Especially considering Deputy Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's comments on Triple J's Hack program on Tuesday

4. Defence is the best form of attack: Mr Rudd took the interview on his own terms. On his home ground. In his own office (likely, to emphasise the fact the he is PRIME MINISTER ONCE AGAIN). He responded to difficult questions by challenging Mr Abbott to debate: "He's the boxing blue, I'm the glasses-wearing kid in the library." You've got to admire his "ticker". He'll probably be in the blue corner.

5. He's still playing it safe: Mr Rudd is sticking to familiar lines. "Let me just say this." "Can I say." Yes. Kevin. You're the PRIME MINISTER (did he mention that?), you can say whatever you like. You don't need our permission. And the terms "catastrophic defeat" and "stand idly by" are becoming soundbites. Kevin 13 wants to get fresh.